Before enlightenment - chop wood, carry water. After enlightenment - chop wood, carry water. -Zen Buddhist Proverb
What is enlightenment? In a nutshell it was "a philosophical movement of the 18th century, characterized by belief in the power of human reason and by innovations in political, religious, and educational doctrine". - Dictionary.com
I think that what the proverb is telling us is that whether or not we have attained an enlightened state per the above definition, the basic human needs remain the same.
You cannot protect yourself from sadness without protecting yourself from happiness. - Jonathan Safran Foer
Rosie - November 3, 2013
I know this statement to be true. Sometimes those we love most and who bring us the most happiness can also bring us the most sadness. That they aren't always human doesn't matter, the love is still the same. Isn't that worth it? A lot has happened since my last post. I put together this quote last Monday but couldn't bring myself to publish it.
Rosie and me
Early
on Sunday morning, November 3, I said a tearful good-bye to Rosie, my constant companion for the last 16 years.
One small cat changes coming home to an empty house to coming home. - Pam Brown
Dood, Rosie and Sophie
Today's quote is in honor of our feline friends. Full of love and personality, they definitely turn a house into a home. Here are our three enjoying some quiet camaraderie.